A SPECIALIST hospital supporting people with autism has been rated as “outstanding” by an independent regulator.

Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) reported that Newbus Grange, part of the Danshell Group, provides “outstanding” care and support for people with autism.

The service, based in Neasham near Darlington, was found to be either good or outstanding in all areas of care and leadership.

Sharena Record, Central Operations Director at Danshell, said: “We would like to thank the inspectors for their positive words about Newbus Grange.

“I am delighted that the inspectors have recognised the progress people make while at Newbus Grange and the support families feel they and their loved ones receive from the service. The entire team always go above and beyond to create a service that is truly centred on each person’s needs.”

In their report, inspectors said carers and family members of the people supported at specialist facility praised the service as “very good” and told them that staff were “compassionate, caring and went the extra mile to support people”.

The report added that staff cared for people in a “kind and dignified” way and the team showed “creativity and determination” in delivering care.

Inspectors found there was “a strong person-centred culture in the service” and that staff were “highly motivated and inspired to offer care that was kind, person-centred and protected dignity”. They observed that staff took time to get to know their patients and were able to identify their individual needs and preferences.

The report further praised the “compassionate, inclusive and effective leadership at all levels” where leaders demonstrated “the high levels of experience, capacity and capability needed to deliver excellent and sustainable care”.

Newbus Grange was commended for having a “focus on improving the quality and sustainability of care and people’s experiences”.

The team that inspected the service comprised of two CQC inspectors, one registered learning disabilities nurse, one occupational therapist and one expert by experience.

Service Manager Hazel Southern said: “I am incredibly proud of the entire staff team. This Outstanding rating from the CQC is a testament to the fantastic care and support we provide.”

To read a full copy of the report visit www.cqc.org.uk

For details about the centre visit www.danshell.co.uk/autism-services/newbus-grange or call 01325-721951.